President Biden is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday, following some confusion about whether the meeting would happen at all. Initially, Netanyahu’s team was unsure if the meeting, originally set for Tuesday, would take place. However, a U.S. official later confirmed that the meeting was rescheduled for Thursday.
Netanyahu’s visit to the U.S. comes at a time of political turmoil, as President Biden recently announced that he will not seek a second term in the White House. Additionally, Biden is currently recovering from a COVID-19 diagnosis, with his physician reporting that his symptoms have almost completely resolved.
Vice President Kamala Harris is also expected to have a meeting with Netanyahu this week. Harris, who received Biden’s endorsement for the 2024 presidential race after he dropped out, will likely engage in discussions with the Israeli Prime Minister.
Netanyahu is set to address Congress on Wednesday, emphasizing Israel’s commitment to standing by the U.S. regardless of who the next president may be. He also requested a meeting with former President Trump during his visit, although it is unclear if Trump has agreed to the meeting.
The meeting between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu holds significance in the context of U.S.-Israel relations, especially during a time when both countries are navigating political transitions and global uncertainties. The outcome of their discussions and the messages conveyed during the visit will be closely watched by observers on both sides of the Atlantic.